Ballinamere National School
School Details
Location
About
Ballinamere National School is a co‑educational, Catholic‑ethos primary school serving the Ballinamere community. The school provides eight mainstream classes for children aged 4‑12 and a dedicated autism provision, the Esker Centre, which now comprises three specialist classrooms. This inclusive approach ensures that pupils of all abilities receive tailored support within a nurturing environment. The campus features modern teaching facilities, including a purpose‑built classroom block opened in 2005, a general‑purpose (G.P.) room, and specialised spaces for the autism centre. Outdoor areas are designed for both play and structured activities, supporting the school’s emphasis on holistic development. The school’s ethos promotes a warm, welcoming atmosphere where academic rigour is balanced with social and emotional wellbeing, encouraging students to become confident, caring members of the community.
History
The educational heritage of Ballinamere dates back to a 19th‑century hedge school taught by Darby Dunne. The first state‑run national school in the area was Ballycowan School, which closed in 1910, followed by Ballykilmurray School (closed 1966). Ballinamere National School was established on its present site in 1966 as a three‑teacher school, expanded in 1973 with an extra classroom and G.P. room, and grew to eight teachers by the late 1970s. Prefabricated classrooms served the school for 28 years. A new, purpose‑built school opened on 12 December 2005, initially housing eight mainstream classes and a two‑room autism centre (The Esker Centre). A third autism classroom was added in September 2013, and the school continues to evolve under successive leadership.